Action ACTSP39 Sneaky Pete Pool Cue Review

Sneaky Pete cues are known for their hidden two-piece joints. A seasoned player will likely be able to distinguish one from a house cue, but you might be surprised how many players still fall for the oldest trick in the book.

The Action ACTSP39 Sneaky Pete Cue certainly carries on this morally dubious tradition. The stick even has the barebones styling of a house cue. If you’re a beginner, this is sure to slip by a few gambling men.

Deflection Level

Mid Deflection Level Shaft50%

Hit and Feel

Pointed Accuracy70%

Cost

Inexpensive70%

Appearance

House Style, Plain50%

Overall Review

4/5

If you’re just starting out but willing to spend a little extra, the Action ACTSP39 Sneaky Pete Cue will serve you fine. Pulling the stick out in league play may not be the most advisable course of action.

Then again, there are many amateurs and semi-professionals who sing the cue’s praises. And, if you think you may find yourself getting more serious in time, you can custom-order a third-party tip from Pooldawgs.

What's Deflection?Having low deflection is a good thing when shooting pool, especially among the higher skill. When English or Spin is applied to the cue ball, it creates "squirt" which veers the cue ball away from the intended direction. Using a Pool Cue with lower "deflection" helps negate that effect.

About Action

For over a decade, Action has been putting out high-quality merchandise without compromising quality control. Such an arrangement is rare for a company that mass-produces cues overseas.

They often sell their cues through warehouses, and supply restaurant and bar owners with bulk orders. So, if you want a Sneaky Pete cue that really resembles a house stick, there’s no better contender.

What Player Does this Suit

While the Action ACTSP39 Sneaky Pete Cue is still firmly in the beginner camp, with a few modifications, you can take this cue far. We’d recommend this cue for a player who doesn’t want break the bank, yet is certain they’ll be playing in three months time.

It’s a notch above the lowest price point that Action offers (as far as cues are concerned).

What Other Owners Have Said About It

The majority of players have very few complaints about the Action ACTSP39 Sneaky Pete Cue.

A large percentage of people compliment the balance and feel of the cue.

No complaints about warped or unfinished shafts.

A small minority of players have noticed a strange weight distribution across the shaft, though it doesn’t seem to affect play.

As an entry-point to Sneaky Pete style cues, there is no better alternative. The Lucasi is just too expensive for a beginner. But if you’re willing to forego the hustler house cue vibe for a more traditional cue, you can get a few extras and goodies for the same price.

The Schmelke Schmo2 may not be as sturdy as the Action. Still, if you value high craftsmanship and exotic wood, you won’t be disappointed.

Bottom Line

The Action ACTSP39 Sneaky Pete Cue does what it sets out to do: It’s a no-frills hitter with impressive accuracy and a host of customization options. And, if you swap out the tip, you may be able to contend in an APA league.

That said, for this price, you may be able to get a similar option with a low-deflection shaft. Granted, it won’t be the best low-deflection shaft, but using English will become a lot easier.

Here is a quick breakdown of the Pros and Cons:

PROS:

It’s a sleeper cue — surprise your friends, fool your enemies.

Comes with a one-year warranty and an accessory.

Action has an outstanding reputation.

CONS:

In the price range, you can get a whole lot more.

No low-deflection shaft.

Somewhat average by every measure. Doesn’t stand out, but is never an outright bad performer.

Beginners who are attracted to the Sneaky Pete wood-to-wood joint will find a lot to love here. Quality control is high and the cue seems to handle heavy hitters with aplomb. But if you’re not attached to the look, other alternatives promise the same, if not more.

Benny is the owner of Supreme Billiards and has been shooting pool and teaching people how to shoot pool for a few years now. He enjoys showing new players techniques and drills to improve their pool game.

Hi I'm Benny

My name is Benny and I’m the author of Supreme Billiards. I love learning and teaching others about pool and billiards. Every time I learn something new, I can’t wait to share this new-found knowledge.

I have been playing pool for over 10 years and have played in APA, UPA, and BCA/BCAPL format leagues.

My favorite game is 9-Ball and my choice of equipment is the 314-3/Revo and the Stinger break/jump cue.

I am by no means a professional pool player, but I know enough to be dangerous.

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